In a world where mindful drinking is no longer a niche but a movement, Houston-based husband-and-wife team Andrew Solis and Blanca Silva-Solis have carved out a bold space with Cut Above Zero Proof Spirits. The local, family-run company has quickly become the most awarded independent nonalcoholic spirits brand in the U.S., earning more than 50 accolades and the title of US Alcohol-Free Producer of the Year. With a lineup of gin, whiskey, tequila, and mezcal crafted to mix seamlessly into classic cocktails, the Solises are redefining what it means to enjoy a drink without compromise.
“Our way of thinking is best summed up by ‘Zero Proof For Everyone’”, says Blanca. “We engage with people who are curious about consuming less alcohol, and meet them where they are.”
The story behind Cut Above is as personal as it is pioneering. It began with Andrew’s desire to drink less and set a better example for his children, only to discover a market lacking nonalcoholic spirits that could truly hold their own in a cocktail. Determined to push the boundaries of what an NA spirit could be, he joined forces with his wife, Blanca, to create a brand that celebrates inclusion and normalizes exceptional low- and no-ABV cocktails.
The idea came into focus in 2021, when Andrew began exploring the existing nonalcoholic spirits market. What he found was striking: most NA options weren’t designed to play alongside traditional spirits, and many came across as anti-alcohol rather than inclusive. That realization sparked a mission—not just to create a product that could hold its own in a cocktail, but to build a brand that welcomed all drinkers, whether they were cutting back or simply seeking variety. It was a moment that turned curiosity into a clear purpose.
Building a company as a couple brings a unique mix of challenges and advantages, and for Andrew and Blanca, trust and communication anchor their partnership. Andrew oversees Cut Above’s day-to-day operations, while Blanca balances a full-time career with supporting the brand through activations, tastings, and events. “We overlap most in brand vision and direction,” Blanca says, “which acts as our common language.”
Their goal is for drinkers to embrace their choices, whether that may be enjoying a fully nonalcoholic cocktail or simply dialing back the alcohol, all without sacrificing the joy of the moment. For the Solis, it’s about giving people the freedom to imbibe on their own terms while still savoring the social ritual of a great drink.
“We make drinking less at home more approachable with our patented ‘Cut Cocktail’, which is any cocktail made using half Cut Above and half a traditional spirit base creating a low ABV cocktail,” explains Blanca.
Despite the growing popularity of non-alcoholic spirits, misconceptions still linger—particularly around pricing. Many people assume NA spirits ought to be cheaper than traditional bottles, when in reality, the Solizes explain that alcohol itself is the least expensive component of a spirit.
In order to craft the bold, complex flavors that define Cut Above, Andrew and Blanca use more natural ingredients than many conventional spirits, ensuring that every cocktail delivers a satisfying experience. It’s a careful balance of quality and creativity that challenges assumptions while elevating the category as a whole.
To hammer the point home, the couple focuses on industry education, spending time teaching bartenders, restaurateurs, and retailers how to use and present their spirits in ways that elevate the drinking experience. They aim to ensure every pour, whether on-premise or at home, showcases the versatility and quality of their non-alcoholic creations.
Houston’s bars, restaurants, and bartenders have been instrumental in shaping Cut Above’s journey. “We are four years in with Cut Above, and we would not have been able to be where we are, and where we are going, without our hometown support!” says Blanca, proudly.
Looking ahead, Andrew and Blanca Solis are focused on intentional growth for Cut Above. Their plan includes deepening roots in Houston and across Texas, expanding into hospitality and retail accounts nationwide, and broadening their distribution footprint—which already spans 24 states.
At the heart of it all, they remain committed to leading the mindful drinking movement, one thoughtfully crafted sip at a time.
